A big step for mental health and professional sports took place last Thursday when Carey Price, the Goalie of the Montreal Canadiens, stepped away from the game and checked himself into the NHL/NHLPA’s players assistance program. Price’s courageous act brought to light the stress and struggles one can experience as a professional athlete.
The past year for Price was difficult to say the least. His longtime friend and goaltending coach Stephane Waite was abruptly fired due to Price’s poor performance early on. Price still took the Canadiens to the 2021 playoffs of the Stanley Cup, playing some of the best hockey thus far in his career. However after going down in 5 games to the returning champions, The Tampa Bay Lightning, he placed the blame on himself for the downfall of his team.
Beaucoup d'amour pour Carey. ❤️
So much love for Carey.#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/GwN8n2cHWO
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) October 7, 2021
Price’s injuries have also been attributed to his check in at the program. During the off-season, Price was in the process of rehabilitation from meniscus surgery. In an interview with NHL.com, Price recalled the whole experience saying “it wasn’t very much fun.”
Price and GM, Marc Bergevin were given the go ahead by doctors claiming the swelling was normal. Price laced up a few times and got back on the ice leading into training camp during the pre-season. However swelling in his knee halted the goaltender’s progress forcing him off the ice.
After Price checked himself into the player assistance program, Bergevin broke the news to Price’s teammates who were taken off guard. Head coach Dominique Ducharme spoke to Bergevin after the announcement and said “The guys were pretty shook up”.
Nonetheless teammates of Price gave their support wishing him the best in his recovery. Brendan Gallagher, a B.C. native and right wing for the Canadiens, put out a statement on Twitter addressing his relationship with Price, and praising him for his brave decision.
This was so well said by @BGALLY17. pic.twitter.com/BPcJgjZwaV
— Eric Engels (@EricEngels) October 8, 2021
Price is scheduled to be checked in to the program for a minimum of 30 days. As of now, Fans, Coaches, and teammates await his healthy return.